The event will be staged in conjunction with Italian Vogue, and funds raised will go to the Japanese Red Cross and its medical staff and volunteers.

"Witnessing disasters and loss of life never gets easier but what is always inspiring is the courage of the survivors, the generosity of strangers and the support from organisations like Fashion For Relief," said Tadateru Konoé, President of the Japanese Red Cross and the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies.

"In moments of helplessness people want to feel like they can give or do something; events such as the Fashion For Relief opens that door."

The star-studded fashion event will see some of the world's top models, entertainers, stylistas, and socialites hitting the runway for charity, wearing creations by a blue chip line-up of international designers and couturiers.

Franca Sozzani, editor-in-chief of Italian Vogue, said: "We want to send out a strong message to support the Japanese people in such a dramatic moment. It is also important to remember at this time the enormous contribution which Japan has always given to the world of fashion and culture thanks to the revolutionary ideas of fashion designers, photographers, artists, filmmakers and writers. We want this to continue and the commitment of Fashion for Relief aims to do exactly this."

Naomi Campbell founded Fashion For Relief in 2005 as a means of uniting the fashion community in times of need. The first catwalk show was held during Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week in New York, and raised $1 million for the victims of hurricane Katrina.

Subsequent catwalk galas have been held in London, Mumbai, Moscow, and Dar Es Salaam, with a total of more than £4.5 million raised.

"The destruction caused by the earthquake in Japan is completely heartbreaking, it's so hard to even begin to comprehend the tragic loss people are coping with," said Naomi Campbell, "I felt very passionate to try and help in whatever way possible, to do our part and to support Japan at this time. I hope that the money raised from Fashion For Relief in Cannes will support those who need it most."